Vikki Aldridge - Makeup Artist, Nail & Hair Stylist

 *Everyone has a completely different budget when it comes to their wedding, so please consider a few things when planning your day.

If you are only budgeting $500 for a photographer, rather than the average $5000 for a photographer, then you cannot expect the results from a $5000 photographer, so make sure to spend the money in the areas that MATTER TO YOU!

If you are like most brides and only want to look your absolute best on your wedding day, remember your makeup artist plays a major role in how you will look on your big day.

The QUALITY of makeup artists varies greatly – so this will be reflected in their pricing. You have people who are just beginning, more experienced artists, and the people who are the very best in the industry, who will obviously charge at a higher rate. Basically, you get what you pay for. For example:

Graduate artists: **$60-$75pp - this is a base rate, and anything cheaper than this is seriously undercutting and potentially causing damage to the entire industry; if your makeup artist is charging below this amount I would be asking some questions as to what products they are using?  Are they qualified? Do they follow strict hygiene guidelines etc. Do they have insurance?

?Experienced artists: **$85-$100pp- these artists usually have a minimum of 3 years in the industry, should be covered for public liability, have some experience working with different skin types, colours and age groups.?

Well sought after industry professionals: **$120-$300+pp – and in some cases upward of $1000pp for some celebrity artists.- these artists have 10+ years’ experience (mostly 15 or more), run a business, have an ABN, have public liability, offer contracts, have a lot of experience working with different skin types, colours and age groups, practice safe hygiene, know their products 100%, have fabulous testimonials, work regularly on photoshoots, get most of their work by word of mouth.

I understand that not everyone can see the art in makeup artistry – and it “all looks the same”, but trust me, the quality of work varies significantly!

If the makeup side of your wedding really is not important to you and you really cannot determine the difference between a good makeup artist and an AWESOME makeup artist, or, the quality of makeup, then yes, definitely go for your budget end makeup artist!

However, if you are very particular, and only want to look the very best for your event AND your photos, then please do remember that good quality makeup artists, come at a price – they’re not just “trying to rip you off”, they’re providing a high end service.

At the end of the day, this isn’t a hobby for most, it is their job, their income, their business. 

** prices are to be used as a guide only.  Prices vary in country areas and interstate

* Most information obtained from Nikita Pere MUA's blog

  Yes.  It protects both parties and by signing a contract you know exactly what  services you are getting and also stipulates the time, date and

       place of event.  Most professional service providers offer contracts for weddings.